Manistique gets ‘Lifetime’ title

LANSING – The Office of Services to the Aging and Commission on Services to the Aging have designated Manistique as a “Community for a Lifetime”, in recognition of their efforts to become a more aging friendly community.

Established in 2007, the CFL is part of a nationwide movement to respond to the needs of a rapidly aging population. Since the program began, it has become apparent that when communities make modifications for the greater living ease of its older citizens, all community members benefit. Housing and mobility options, access to services, parks and culture, and opportunities for participation in community events, all contribute to making CFL communities good places to be raised, prosper and grow old.

“Progressive communities, such as Manistique, understand the true value of retaining and attracting younger persons, families and older adults by promoting desirable community assets across the entire lifespan,” said Kari Sederburg, Director of the OSA. “The same curb cut that allows an older person with a cane to more easily cross the street, for example, also benefits safe passage of a child in a stroller. We wholeheartedly congratulate Manistique for its continued work in helping improve the lives of its older residents.”

To qualify for CFL recognition, a community conducts a self assessment or initiates an improvement that meets the program’s aging friendly goals. Manistique assessed itself on many issues, including walkability, access to health care, transportation, safety and security, housing, supportive community systems, business accessibility, enrichment, and community caring.

Strengths identified in Manistique include:

Putting a “Complete Streets” resolution in place

Improving signage to facilitate walkability

Establishing a comprehensive community CFL action plan

Taking steps to generate resources to make community improvements

For more information about the Manistique CFL program, contact Kerry Ott, Sault Tribe - Manistique Strategic Alliance for Health at (906) 341-9561 or kott@saulttribe.net. General information about the “Communities for a Lifetime” programs may be found at www.michigan.gov/miseniors or by contacting OSA at (517) 373-8230.